Speaker 1: Nurzhan Yesmagambet
Title 1: Advancing Underwater Exploration: ROV Safe Navigation and Data Collection

Abstract:
Recent progress in underwater robotics is detailed, centering on a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) designed for exploration in shallow waters. The presentation covers the enhancement of safe navigation and data collection capabilities, including manual coral reef data sampling within the CPV area as part of the collaborative efforts with Prof. Raquel Peixoto’s team. The ROV's development as a robust platform for environmental data acquisition is outlined, reflecting on the initial mapping of coral reefs and the navigational challenges that have been addressed. Improvements in semi-automated data collection and navigational accuracy are showcased, crucial to refining the ROV's guidance system. The presentation will provide an overview of the current capabilities and discuss prospective enhancements to further improve the navigation and data collection efficiency of the ROV. The objective is to advance operational performance and contribute to the broader scientific understanding within underwater exploration and ecological research.

Speaker 2: Dr. Ananya Ashok
Title 2: Connecting the dots: from science to policy

Abstract:
Everyone doing a Ph.D. does at some point wonder, "what's next"? A Ph.D is an enriching experience that drives in-depth learning about a specific topic. Some continue to further deepen their learning in academic research. Some want to explore other horizons. In this talk, I will talk about my journey from being an impact-seeking STEM Ph.D. student to becoming a public policy consultant contributing to bridging the science-policy interface. The talk will provide a brief introduction to the European policy process setting it against an international context, touch upon transferable skills of Ph.Ds, and conclude with providing cues on directions for those interested in exploring a similar career path.

Bio:
Ananya Ashok completed her Ph.D. from KAUST in 2022. She was a student at RSRC under the doctoral supervision of Susana Agusti. Her doctoral research conducted a scientific risk assessment of oil-derived pollutants in the marine environment. During her academics, Ananya was also a keen science communicator and enjoyed simplifying scientific jargon for different audiences. Currently, Ananya is a Consultant and Topic Lead (Water) at Trinomics in the Netherlands (more about this in her talk). When she is not thinking about effective policy, she spends her time with her cat or planning her next travels.